This fun and easy Crockpot Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a tasty way to start your day! With crispy tater tots, eggs, cheese, and goodies like bacon or sausage, it’s a breakfast dream.
Who knew making breakfast could be so simple? Just toss everything in the Crockpot, let it cook, and enjoy the delicious smell as it fills your kitchen. Perfect for lazy mornings! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: Convenient frozen tater tots are the star here, adding crispness and heartiness. You can swap them for hash browns if that’s what you have on hand.
Ground Breakfast Sausage: This gives the dish a savory kick. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage works well. For a vegetarian version, try using a meat substitute or simply omit it!
Eggs: Large eggs are the base that holds everything together. If you want a lighter version, you can use egg whites or a chickpea flour mixture as a fantastic alternative.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds that gooey, melty goodness. Feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little spice. You could also use a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Do I Get the Eggs Perfectly Set?
Cooking eggs in a crockpot can be tricky, but here are some tips to ensure they set nicely:
- Make sure to whisk the eggs and milk well; this incorporates air, helping them fluff up.
- Keep the lid on during cooking—this retains moisture and heat, cooking the eggs evenly.
- Check for doneness after about 6 hours. If still runny, let it cook for the remaining time.
Remember, patience is key! The slow cooking ensures everything melds together deliciously, giving you a comforting breakfast casserole.
Crockpot Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
- 1 lb ground breakfast sausage
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup diced onion (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy casserole will take about 15-20 minutes for prep, plus 6 to 8 hours of cooking time on LOW in the Crockpot. Just a little patience—and then you’ll have a delightful breakfast ready for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground breakfast sausage until it’s browned and good to go, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it apart as it cooks. Once cooked, drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside.
2. Layer the Crockpot:
Grab your trusty Crockpot and spray the inside with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Now, arrange half of the frozen tater tots evenly across the bottom—this will be the foundation of your delicious casserole!
3. Add Sausage and Cheese:
Spread the cooked sausage over the layer of tater tots. Then, sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. If you enjoy a bit of extra flavor, feel free to sprinkle the diced onion evenly over the cheese as well.
4. Add Remaining Tater Tots:
Now, take the rest of the frozen tater tots and spread them evenly over the sausage and cheese layer. It’s looking good already!
5. Mix Eggs and Milk:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until all the ingredients are well mixed up and frothy. This is what will bind the casserole together!
6. Pour Egg Mixture:
Slowly pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the Crockpot. Make sure it’s distributed as evenly as possible.
7. Cook:
Cover the Crockpot and cook everything on LOW for 6 to 8 hours, or until the eggs are set, and the tater tots are nice and tender. You might want to check it around the 6-hour mark to see how it’s doing!
8. Add Cheese Topping:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to eat, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Cover it again and let the cheese melt—this part is always the most exciting!
9. Serve:
When everything is cooked and the cheese is melted, remove the lid, garnish with chopped green onions or chives, and serve warm. Enjoy your comforting and satisfying meal!
This hearty, cheesy, and delicious Crockpot Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is perfect for busy mornings, potlucks, or gatherings. Dig in!
Can I Use Frozen Tater Tots Directly?
Absolutely! There’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Just pour them straight from the bag into the Crockpot, and they’ll cook perfectly as the casserole simmers.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it the night before! Just layer everything in the Crockpot, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, set it to cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours. It’ll be ready by breakfast!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through.
Can I Customize the Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add or swap ingredients based on your preferences. This recipe works well with veggies like bell peppers or spinach, different cheeses, or even using bacon instead of sausage. The options are endless!
